U.S. patent application number 16/602680 was filed with the patent office on 2020-06-25 for device and method for inflating and repairing tires and other inflatables.
This patent application is currently assigned to UNITED STATES THERMOELECTRIC CONSORTIUM. The applicant listed for this patent is UNITED STATES THERMOELECTRIC CONSORTIUM. Invention is credited to James M. Kerner, Ryan B. Kerner, James R. Shary.
Application Number | 20200198417 16/602680 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 62144665 |
Filed Date | 2020-06-25 |
View All Diagrams
United States Patent
Application |
20200198417 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Kerner; James M. ; et
al. |
June 25, 2020 |
DEVICE AND METHOD FOR INFLATING AND REPAIRING TIRES AND OTHER
INFLATABLES
Abstract
Devices are taught for filling a tire with air, gas or a liquid
and repairing the tire. In one embodiment, the tire repair tool
discloses an transmittal control section, with the transmittal
control section comprising a proximal end, the proximal end having
an opening, a distal end, with the distal end having a centralized
opening to align with a punctureable seal at a proximal end of a
gas cartridge; a passageway positioned between the proximal end of
the gas cartridge and the distal end; and a puncture tool which can
puncture the punctureable seal of the gas cartridge. The puncture
tool is positioned at the distal end of the transmittal control
section along the air passage way. An insertion tube comprises an
air inlet at a distal end of the insertion tube which is connected
to the opening of the proximal end of the transmittal control
section. A gas outlet passes air from a gas cartridge through the
air passage way through the transmittal control section into the
air inlet of the insertion tube and through the gas outlet.
Inventors: |
Kerner; James M.; (Chico,
CA) ; Kerner; Ryan B.; (Chico, CA) ; Shary;
James R.; (Chico, CA) |
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Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
UNITED STATES THERMOELECTRIC CONSORTIUM |
CHICO |
CA |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
UNITED STATES THERMOELECTRIC
CONSORTIUM
CHICO
CA
|
Family ID: |
62144665 |
Appl. No.: |
16/602680 |
Filed: |
November 20, 2019 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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16602196 |
Aug 28, 2019 |
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16602680 |
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15732489 |
Nov 20, 2017 |
10399397 |
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16602196 |
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62602611 |
May 1, 2017 |
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62602260 |
Apr 19, 2017 |
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62424966 |
Nov 21, 2016 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B29L 2030/00 20130101;
B60C 29/04 20130101; B29C 73/08 20130101; B60C 25/16 20130101 |
International
Class: |
B60C 25/00 20060101
B60C025/00; B29C 73/08 20060101 B29C073/08; B60C 29/04 20060101
B60C029/04 |
Claims
1-87. (canceled)
88) A method for inflating a tire, said method comprising: a)
Obtaining a repair tool, said repair tool comprising: i) a
transmittal control section capable of transmitting a material form
selected from the group consisting of a gas, air, liquid, and any
combination thereof, said transmittal control section comprising:
1) a proximal end, said proximal end having an opening; 2) a distal
end, said distal end having a centralized opening to connectively
mate with a proximal end of a gas cartridge, said gas cartridge
filled with the material form, and having a puncturable seal at its
proximal end; 3) an air passage way positioned between said
proximal end of said gas cartridge and said proximal end of said
transmittal control section; 4) a puncture tool which can puncture
the puncturable seal of the gas cartridge, said puncture tool
positioned at the distal end of said transmittal control section
along the air passage way; ii) an elongated insertion tube, said
elongated tube having a length long enough for insertion into an
interior of a tire through a break or hole, said insertion tube
comprising: 1) an air inlet at a distal end of said tube, said
distal end of said tube being integral with or connected to said
opening of said proximal end of said transmittal control section;
and 2) a gas outlet, for passing air, gas, or a gas/liquid from a
gas cartridge through said gas passage way through the transmittal
control section into the inlet of the tube, and through the gas
outlet; b) inserting said insertion tube into a wound in a tire
such that the gas outlet is within an interior of the tire; c)
releasing the from the gas cylinder connected to the repair tool
such that the air flows through the cylinder and passing through
the insertion tube, thereby inflating the tire; and d) withdrawing
said insertion tube from said wound in said tire.
89) The method for inflating the tire of claim 88, further
comprising filling said wound in said tire as the insertion tube is
withdrawn.
90) The method for inflating the tire of claim 88, further
comprising filling said wound in said tire after the insertion tube
is withdrawn.
91) The method for inflating the tire of claim 88, wherein: a) said
gas cartridge of said repair tool is threaded at said proximal end;
and b) said transmittal control section is threaded at its distal
end, such that said gas cartridge and said transmittal control
section threadably mate.
92) The method for inflating the tire of claim 88, wherein said
puncture tool further comprises: a) a shape selected from the group
consisting of a cylinder and a polygon; and b) a groove in a side
of the puncture tool to allow air to pass from the gas cartridge,
thereby allowing said material form from said gas cartridge to
traverse through said transmittal control section, and out through
said gas outlet of said insertion tube.
93) The method for inflating said tire of claim 88, further
comprising: plugging said wound in said tire after withdrawing said
insertion tube from said wound.
94) The method for inflating the tire of claim 93, using a repair
plug positioned at the end of said insertion tube to plug said
wound in said tire.
95) The method for inflating the tire of claim 93 wherein said
plugging of said wound in said tire uses a cord.
96) The method for inflating the tire of claim 93, wherein said
plugger is attached to or integral with an insertion tube.
97) The method for inflating the tire of claim 95, further
comprising inserting said cord into a pair of tines positioned
proximal to the gas outlet, prior to inserting said cord into said
wound in the tire.
98) The method for inflating the tire of claim 88, wherein in
obtaining said repair tool, said insertion tube further comprises:
a) an upper section of said insertion tube; b) a lower section of
said insertion tube; c) a wall between said upper section and said
lower section; d) a hole in said upper section of said insertion
tube to allow for air, gas, fluid, and combinations thereof to exit
into the tire; and e) an opening in the lower section of the
insertion tube to allow for insertion of a repair plug, such that
when said insertion tube is inserted into the wound in the tire and
then withdrawn, the repair plug blocks up the wound.
99) The method for inflating a tire of claim 88, wherein the
transmittal control section further comprises a circumference
around an X axis, said circumference selected from the group
consisting of round and polygonal.
100) The method for inflating a tire of claim 89, wherein said
transmittal control section further comprises at least one knurl
around the X axis.
101) The method for inflating a tire of claim 88, wherein: a) said
proximal end of said transmittal control section is threaded around
an inside of said proximal end of said transmittal control section;
and b) said distal end of said insertion tube is threaded around an
outside of said insertion tube; such that said proximal end of said
transmittal control section and said distal end of said insertion
tube are threadably mated.
102) The method of inflating a tire of claim 88, further comprising
a reverse blocking valve positioned within said upper end of said
insertion tube.
103) The method of inflating a tire of claim 88, further comprising
a tire pressure gauge positioned between the insertion tube and the
transmittal control section.
104) The method of inflating a tire of claim 88, further comprising
a plugger, said plugger comprising: a) a distal end, said distal
end connected to said proximal end of said insertion tube; and c) a
tong assembly positioned at the proximal end of said plugger, said
tong assembly used to position a repair cord into a puncture hole
in a tire.
105) The method of inflating a tire of claim 88, further comprising
a control valve positioned in the transmittal control section, said
control valve allowing for the control of passage of air from the
cartridge through the transmittal control section and out through
the insertion tube.
106) The method of inflating a tire of claim 88, wherein said
control valve is positioned at the distal end of the transmittal
control section.
107) The method of inflating a tire of claim 88, further comprising
a driver housing comprising: a) an elongated body that fits over
the gas cartridge; b) a proximal end; c) a distal end; d) an inside
rim at the proximal end of the elongated body that mates with an
outside distal rim of the transmittal control section; e) a
threaded opening in the distal end of the elongated body; f) an
elongated thumb screw that fits through the threaded opening; and
g) a cap which fits over a rounded end of the proximal end of the
gas cartridge.
108) The method for inflating a tire of claim 88, wherein said
insertion tube is in the form of a plugger, said plugger
comprising: a) a distal end of said plugger connected to said
proximal end of said transmittal control section; b) at least one
said gas outlet on an upper section of said plugger; and c) a tong
assembly positioned at the proximal end of said plugger, said tong
assembly used to position a repair cord into a puncture hole in a
tire.
109) The method for inflating a tire of claim 88, further
comprising: a) threading within the proximal end of the insertion
tube; and b) a plugger, said plugger having a distal end and a
proximal end, said distal end of said plugger having threading to
thread with said proximal end of the insertion tube.
110) A method for inflating and repairing a tire, comprising: a)
Obtaining a repair tool, said repair tool comprising: i) a
transmittal control section capable of transmitting a material form
selected from the group consisting of a gas, air, liquid, and any
combination thereof, said transmittal control section comprising:
1) a proximal end, said proximal end having an opening; 2) a distal
end, said distal end having a centralized opening to connectively
mate with a proximal end of a gas cartridge, said gas cartridge
filled with the material form, and having a puncturable seal at its
proximal end; 3) an air passage way positioned between said
proximal end of said gas cartridge and said proximal end of said
transmittal control section; 4) a puncture tool which can puncture
the puncturable seal of the gas cartridge, said puncture tool
positioned at the distal end of said transmittal control section
along the air passage way; ii) an elongated insertion tube, said
elongated tube having a length long enough for insertion into an
interior of a tire through a break or hole, said insertion tube
comprising: 1) an air inlet at a distal end of said tube, said
distal end of said tube being integral with or connected to said
opening of said proximal end of said transmittal control section;
and 2) a gas outlet, for passing air, gas, or a gas/liquid from a
gas cartridge through said gas passage way through the transmittal
control section into the inlet of the tube, and through the gas
outlet; b) inserting said insertion tube into a wound in a tire
such that the gas outlet is within an interior of the tire; c)
releasing the from the gas cylinder connected to the repair tool
such that the air flows through the cylinder and passing through
the insertion tube, thereby inflating the tire; d) withdrawing said
insertion tube from said wound in said tire; and e) repairing said
wound in said tire as said insertion tube is withdrawn.
111) The method for inflating and repairing a tire of claim 110,
wherein: a) said gas cartridge is threaded at said proximal end;
and b) said transmittal control section is threaded at its distal
end, such that said gas cartridge and said transmittal control
section threadably mate.
112) The method for inflating and repairing a tire of claim 110,
wherein said puncture tool further comprises: a) a shape selected
from the group consisting of a cylinder and a polygon; and b) a
groove in a side of the puncture tool to allow air to pass from the
gas cartridge, thereby allowing air from said gas cartridge to
traverse through said transmittal control section, and out through
said gas outlet of said insertion tube.
113) The method for inflating and repairing a tire of claim 110,
wherein the transmittal control section further comprising a
circumference around an X axis, said circumference selected from
the group consisting of round and polygonal.
114) The method for inflating and repairing a tire of claim 113,
wherein said transmittal control section further comprises at least
one knurl around the X axis.
115) The method for inflating and repairing a tire of claim 110,
wherein: a) said proximal end of said transmittal control section
is threaded around an inside of said proximal end of said
transmittal control section; and b) said distal end of said
insertion tube is threaded around an outside of said insertion
tube; such that said proximal end of said transmittal control
section and said distal end of said insertion tube are threadably
mated
116) The method for inflating and repairing a tire of claim 110,
further comprising a reverse blocking valve positioned within said
upper end of said insertion tube.
117) The method for inflating and repairing a tire of claim 110,
further comprising a tire pressure gauge positioned between the
insertion tube and the transmittal control section.
118) The method for inflating and repairing a tire of claim 110,
further comprising a plugger which is positioned in or at said
plugger section, said plugger comprising: a) a distal end, said
distal end connected to said proximal end of said insertion tube;
and b) a tong assembly positioned at the proximal end of said
plugger, said tong assembly used to position a repair cord into a
puncture hole in a tire.
119) The method for inflating and repairing a tire of claim 118,
wherein said plugger is integral with said insertion tube.
120) The method for inflating and repairing a tire of claim 110,
further comprising a control valve positioned in the transmittal
control section, said control valve allowing for the control of
passage of air from the cartridge through the transmittal control
section and out through the insertion tube.
121) The method for inflating and repairing a tire of claim 120,
wherein said control valve is positioned at the distal end of the
transmittal control section.
122) The method for inflating and repairing a tire of claim 110,
further comprising a driver housing; said driver housing said
handle comprising: a) an elongated body that fits over the gas
cartridge; b) a proximal end; c) a distal end; d) an inside rim at
the proximal end of the elongated body that mates with an outside
distal rim of the transmittal control section; e) a threaded
opening in the distal end of the elongated body; f) an elongated
thumb screw that fits through the threaded opening; and g) a cap
which fits over a rounded end of the proximal end of the gas
cartridge.
123) The method for inflating and repairing a tire of claim 110,
wherein said insertion tube is in the form of a plugger, said
plugger comprising: a) a distal end of said plugger; connected to
said proximal end of said transmittal control section; b) at least
one said gas outlet on said plugger; and c) a tong assembly
positioned at the proximal end of said plugger, said tong assembly
used to position a repair cord into a puncture hole in a tire.
124) The method for inflating and repairing a tire of claim 110,
further comprising: a) threading within the proximal end of the
insertion tube; and b) a plugger, said plugger having a distal end
and a proximal end, said distal end of said plugger having
threading to thread with said proximal end of the insertion
tube
125) A method for repairing and inflating a tire, said method
comprising: a) Obtaining a repair tool, said repair tool
comprising: ii) a transmittal control section capable of
transmitting a material form selected from the group consisting of
a gas, air, liquid, and any combination thereof, said transmittal
control section comprising: 1) a proximal end, said proximal end
having an opening; 2) a distal end, said distal end having a
centralized opening to connectively mate with a proximal end of a
gas cartridge, said gas cartridge filled with the material form,
and having a puncturable seal at its proximal end; 3) an air
passage way positioned between said proximal end of said gas
cartridge and said proximal end of said transmittal control
section; 4) a puncture tool which can puncture the puncturable seal
of the gas cartridge, said puncture tool positioned at the distal
end of said transmittal control section along the air passage way;
ii) an elongated insertion tube, said elongated tube having a
length long enough for insertion into an interior of a tire through
a break or hole, said insertion tube comprising: 1) an air inlet at
a distal end of said tube, said distal end of said tube being
integral with or connected to said opening of said proximal end of
said transmittal control section; and 2) a gas outlet, for passing
air, gas, or a gas/liquid from a gas cartridge through said gas
passage way through the transmittal control section into the inlet
of the tube, and through the gas outlet; b) inserting said
insertion tube into a wound in a tire such that the gas outlet is
within an interior of the tire; c) releasing the from the gas
cylinder connected to the repair tool such that the air flows
through the cylinder and passing through the insertion tube,
thereby inflating the tire; d) withdrawing said insertion tube from
said wound in said tire; and e) repairing the tire after said
insertion tube is withdrawn.
Description
[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 16/602,196 filed Aug. 28, 2019, which is a
continuation of Ser. No. 15/732,489, filed Nov. 20, 2017, issued
Sep. 3, 2019 as U.S. Pat. No. 10,399,397 which claims the benefit
of U.S. provisional application 62/602,611, filed May 1, 2017 as
well as to U.S. provisional application filed 62/602,260, filed
Apr. 19, 2017, and provisional application 62/424,966, filed Nov.
21, 2016, incorporated herein in its entirety.
[0002] A tire repair tool is disclosed which can repair and inflate
tires through the puncture or cut in the tire. The tire is repaired
by the use and insertion of a special plug or cord material. The
tool can also be used to repair and/or inflate other elastomeric
items.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
[0003] The figures depict various embodiments of the described
methods and system and are for purposes of illustration only. One
skilled in the art will readily recognize from the following
discussion that alternative embodiments of the methods and systems
illustrated herein may be employed without departing from the
principles of the methods and systems described herein.
[0004] FIG. 1 is an overhead view of the tire repair tool;
[0005] FIG. 2 is a partial cross sectional view of a repair tool
with a tire repair plug and insertion tube inserted into the
tire;
[0006] FIG. 3 is a side perspective view of the tire repair
tool;
[0007] FIG. 4 is a front perspective view showing the tire repair
tool with the tire plug inserted into a bicycle tire, with the user
wearing a glove;
[0008] FIG. 5 is a cross sectional view of one embodiment of part
of the tire repair tool;
[0009] FIG. 6 is another cross-sectional view of another part of
the tire repair tool;
[0010] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the front section of the
tire repair tool;
[0011] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the a tire repair tool with
the double knurled tool body;
[0012] FIG. 9 is a cross sectional view of the tire repair tool
with the double knurled tool body;
[0013] FIG. 10 is an exploded view of one embodiment of the
insertion tube;
[0014] FIG. 11 is an exploded cross sectional view of one
embodiment of the tire repair tool;
[0015] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a cap that fits over the
lower end of the tire repair tool;
[0016] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the cartridge tip piercing
component;
[0017] FIG. 14 is a side view of the cartridge tip piercing
component;
[0018] FIG. 15a is a cross section of the tire repair tool showing
tip piercing component in the open position allowing for the flow
of air;
[0019] FIG. 15b is a cross section of the tire repair tool showing
the tip piercing component piercing the seal and penetrating the
cartridge in the closed position;
[0020] FIG. 16 is a cross section of the tire repair tool having a
large insertion tube;
[0021] FIG. 17 is a cross section of the tire repair tool having a
standard insertion tube;
[0022] FIG. 18 is an exploded view of the tire repair tool;
[0023] FIG. 19 is an exploded view of the tire repair tool having
the larger repair plug with a larger insertion tube;
[0024] FIG. 20 is an exploded view of the tire repair tool for a
tire repair tool having an inflation only tip;
[0025] FIG. 21 is an exploded view of tire repair tool having a
larger inflation only tip;
[0026] FIG. 22 is an exploded view of the tire repair tool with an
adapter that works to inflate tires with either a Presta or a
Schrader valve stem;
[0027] FIG. 23 is a side view of a tire repair tool with a
puncturing tip;
[0028] FIG. 24 is a perspective view of a tire repair tool with a
Schrader or Presta adapter;
[0029] FIG. 25 is a side view and partial cutaway view of another
embodiment of the tire repair tool having a ball valve lever to
open and shut off the flow of CO.sub.2 gas;
[0030] FIG. 26 is a side view and of another embodiment of the tire
repair tool having a digital readout device;
[0031] FIG. 27a is a side view of an alternative embodiment of the
tire repair tool for use in inflating the tire only;
[0032] FIG. 27b is a cross sectional view of the alternative
embodiment of FIG. 27b;
[0033] FIG. 28 is a perspective view of a plugger;
[0034] FIG. 29 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a
plugger;
[0035] FIG. 30 is a side view of the plugger embodiment of FIG.
29;
[0036] FIG. 31 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the
plugger;
[0037] FIG. 32 is a side view of the plugger embodiment of FIG.
31;
[0038] FIG. 33 is a perspective view of the plugger attached to the
tire repair tool with a repair cord positioned within the
tongs;
[0039] FIG. 34 is a perspective view of the plugger attached to the
tire repair tool without the repair cord;
[0040] FIG. 35 is a perspective view of the repair tool with a
cartridge sleeve;
[0041] FIG. 36 is a cross-sectional view of the repair tool with
the cartridge sleeve;
[0042] FIG. 37 is a perspective view of the repair tool with the
cartridge sleeve and "T" handle with the use of a cord plugger;
[0043] FIG. 38 is a perspective view of the repair tool with the
cartridge sleeve and "T" handle with an insert tube;
[0044] FIG. 39 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment
with a gas flow button switch using a threaded or unthreaded
CO.sub.2 cartridge;
[0045] FIG. 40 is a cross sectional view of the repair tool with
the gas flow button switch in the closed position;
[0046] FIG. 41 is a cross sectional view of the repair tool with
the gas flow button switch in the open position;
[0047] FIG. 42 is a side perspective view of another embodiment of
the repair tool having a driver housing with a thumb screw
positioned along the X axis of the body for threaded or
non-threaded CO.sub.2 cartridges;
[0048] FIG. 43 is a side perspective view of another embodiment of
the repair tool having a driver housing with a thumb screw
positioned along the X axis of the body for use with threaded or
non-threaded CO.sub.2 cartridges;
[0049] FIG. 44 is a cross sectional view of the embodiment of FIG.
43;
[0050] FIG. 45 is a partial cross sectional view of an alternative
embodiment of the repair tool;
[0051] FIG. 46 is a perspective view of the alternative embodiment
of the repair tool of FIG. 45;
[0052] FIG. 47 is a perspective view of the insertion tube with a
keyed spiral repair plug;
[0053] FIG. 48 is a cross-sectional view of the insertion tube with
a keyed spiral repair plug and check valve;
[0054] FIG. 49 is a perspective view of the setup to inflate and
repair any tubeless tires including an automobile or truck tire
using an alternative embodiment of the tool;
[0055] FIG. 50 is a perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 49,
after the cartridge is inserted;
[0056] FIG. 51 is a perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 49,
after the tool has been connected to the power drill;
[0057] FIG. 52 is a perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 49
after the insertion tube has been driven into the tubeless
tire;
[0058] FIG. 53 is a perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 49,
after the drill has been disconnected from the tool to allow for
the removal of the cartridge;
[0059] FIG. 54 is a perspective view from the inside of the tire
showing the penetration of the insertion tube and spiral tip;
[0060] FIG. 55 is a close up perspective view from the inside of
the tire showing the penetration of the insertion tube and spiral
tip;
[0061] FIG. 56 is a perspective view showing the spiral conical
metal tip which remains on the inside of the tire;
[0062] FIG. 57 is a perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 49,
showing disengagement of the embodiment of the tool from the
tire;
[0063] FIG. 58 is a cross section of the embodiment of FIG. 49 with
a check valve;
[0064] FIG. 59 is a perspective view of a cartridge less tire
repair tool using an electric inflator;
[0065] FIG. 60 is a partially cross-sectional view of the cartridge
less tire repair tool;
[0066] FIG. 61 is a perspective view of another use of the
cartridge less tire repair tool using a quick connect female air
fitting;
[0067] FIG. 62 is a top perspective view of another embodiment of a
cartridge less tire repair tool using a male quick connect
fitting;
[0068] FIG. 63a is a side perspective view of another embodiment of
a cartridgeless tire repair tool which is capable of using a
Schrader or Presta male valve stem connector;
[0069] FIG. 63b is a side perspective view of another embodiment of
FIG. 63a showing the use of a Schrader valve stem connector;
[0070] FIG. 64 is a perspective view of the tool having a coiled
air hose instead of an insertion tube;
[0071] FIG. 65 is a perspective view of an adapter used in FIG.
65;
[0072] FIG. 66 is cross sectional view of another embodiment of the
device for repairing and filling a tire by injecting a sealant;
[0073] FIG. 67 is a cross sectional view of the embodiment of FIG.
66 after the plunger has been moved to the proximal end of the
device;
[0074] FIG. 68 is a cross sectional view of another embodiment of
FIG. 67 which includes an insertion tube with a repair plug for
repairing a tire after injecting a sealant;
[0075] FIG. 69 is a perspective view of for an insertion tube with
an adapter, carrying a filler cord;
[0076] FIG. 70 is a cross-sectional view of the embodiment of FIG.
69; and
[0077] FIG. 71 is a perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 68,
without the inclusion of the filler cord.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0078] Referring to FIGS. 1-71, the tire repair tool 1 comprises a
CO.sub.2 cartridge (or canister) 2, a knurled body 3, and an
insertion tube 4. The gas cartridge 2 is attached to the knurled
body 3, and the insertion tube 4 is attached to the knurled body.
The knurled body 2 is the intermediate structure that controls the
flow of gas from the gas cartridge and into the insertion tube. The
insertion tube is the device by which a tire or other inflatable
item receives air. In some embodiments, the insertion tube 4 is
also used to repair tires or other inflatable items.
[0079] In one embodiment, the knurled body 3 of the tire repair
tool 1 has knurling on the outside circumference of its round body.
The knurled body can have one knurled ring 9 or at least two
knurled rings 9, 10 around the body 3 (FIG. 8). While the term
"knurled body" is used throughout this specification for
simplicity, the term "body" or "knurled body" is more accurately be
referred to as a transmittal control section 3.
[0080] It should also be noted that the body 3 does not have to
have knurling, and, in an alternative embodiment, the body can have
a variety of other grip enhancing features, if so desired. The body
3 can range in size from about 1/2'' to 2''. The body can be larger
or smaller and can be sized to comfort or need, depending on the
size of the hand of the user, comfort factors, and the size of the
item(s) being inflated.
[0081] While the body 3 is described as circumferentially round, in
alternative embodiments, the body, or more correctly its cross
section or circumference, can have any number of polygonal shapes .
. . . In one embodiment, any or all of the main parts, such as the
cartridge, the body, and the insertion tube 4 can be made of metal,
plastic, or a combination thereof. In one embodiment, the materials
used in the manufacture of the knurled body 3 and the insertion
tube 4 need to withstand higher pressures and lower temperatures,
as compressed gases are, of course, under pressure and are usually
much colder than the surrounding environs. The gas cartridge 2 can
be of almost any length. What is important is that the cartridge 2
and the body 3 be able to mate. In other circumstances, and in
other embodiments, described infra, the body 3 has a mount for
attachment of an air hose. All embodiments of the air body have an
air passageway 12 which allows the air or CO.sub.2 of the cartridge
2 to pass through the body 3 and out through a hose or an insertion
tube 4.
[0082] In the present embodiment, there is a first female threaded
section 7 inside 5 of the distal end 6 of the knurled body 3. This
first female threaded section 7 mates with and threads with male
threads 8 on the gas cartridge 2. The gas cartridge 2 is thus
firmly affixed to the knurled body 3. While threaded sections are
shown in the figures, the gas cartridge 2 can be mated to the
knurled body by different means, including snap fittings, locking
mechanisms, etc. It should be noted that almost any gas (such as
nitrogen) can be used in the gas cartridge 2, as long as the gas
does not adversely affect the item into which the gas is to be
filled. The gas used should also not adversely affect the tire
repair tool 1. Gases including but not limited to carbon dioxide or
air can be used. It should also be noted that the gas cartridges 2
can also include a pressurized liquid, which in some circumstances
can be used to repair a tire. An example of using both liquids and
gases in combination would be inflating a tire through the injury
using a combination of CO.sub.2 and sealant. This is much faster
than repairing a tire through the valve which requires the time
consuming task of removing the "core" from the valve stem to inject
the sealant, replacing the core, and then inflating the tire
through the valve, risking the possibility that the valve can get
clogged from the sealant, dust and dirt, etc.
[0083] A cartridge seal 11 fitted over the proximal end of the
threads of the cartridge 2 serves to seal the gas or pressurized
liquid within the cartridge until needed. The cartridge seal 11 is
usually made of steel, which is the "standard" in the industry,
although some other metal coverings may be used.
[0084] Referring to FIG. 11, the insertion tube 4 is connected to
the proximal end of the knurled body 3. Referring to FIGS. 6
through 10, the insertion tube 4 has, at its distal end 27, male
threads 28 which are threaded into threads 26 within the proximal
end 25 of the knurled body 3. In one embodiment, the insertion tube
4 has a collar 29 below the threads 28 which fit within the
proximal opening 30 of the knurled body. There is an "o" ring 31
which fits tightly on top of the collar 29 and tightly around the
female threads, thereby preventing or limiting air, gas, or liquid
leakage. It should be noted that while threads are described to
connect the insertion tube 4 to said body 3, any form of connection
can be used for attachment, as long as the insertion tube 4 does
not come off when air passes through the body 3 into the insertion
tube 4. In another embodiment, the insertion tube 4 is
"permanently" or integrally attached to the body 3.
[0085] In one embodiment, the insertion tube 4 has an upper section
33 and a lower section 34, separated by an air impermeable wall or
solid barrier 35. The wall 35 can be made of any material
compatible with the insertion tube 4, but is normally made of the
same material as the insertion tube 4. As such, in one embodiment,
the wall is integrally molded with the wall 35. The upper section
33 has at least one hole 36, and in another embodiment, two holes
36, 37 through which the CO.sub.2 gas, other gas(es), or
combinations of liquids and gas flow(s) to inflate the tire (FIG.
3). In yet another embodiment, there are a plurality of holes
through which the gases and/or liquids can flow. It should be noted
that where the term "gas" or "air" is used throughout this
disclosure, the terms can be inclusive of gas, air, liquid, and any
combination thereof. "Air" passageways referred to in this
disclosure can allow for the passage of air, gas, liquid, or any
combination thereof.
[0086] In one embodiment, (Seen in FIGS. 9, 10 and 2, 3, 7) lower
section 34 has an opening 38 at its proximal end 39. Within the
opening 38 there can be fitted with at least one repair plug 40 (as
described in U.S. Pat. No. 8,707,829, issued Apr. 29, 2014, and
U.S. Pat. No. 9,067,368, issued Jun. 30, 2015, both incorporated
herein by reference in their entirety.) (FIGS. 2, 3, 7, 9, 10, 11,
and 18) The repair plug 40 comprises a pointed conical metal tip 41
ending having at its distal end a circumferential shoulder 42 and a
tip collar 43 positioned proximally to the circumferential shoulder
42. A rubberized impregnated cord 44 is attached to an inside of a
distal end of the conical tip 41.
[0087] Referring to FIGS. 6 and 9, in another embodiment, there is
a reverse blocking valve 300 in the upper section 33 of the
insertion tube 4. In one embodiment, the reverse blocking valve is
formed by a resilient member such as a check valve compression
spring 46, and a ball bearing seal 47 on top of the valve
compression spring 46. On top of the ball bearing seal 47 is an
O-ring seal 48 for the positioning of the ball bearing seal 47 and
on top of the O-ring seal 48 is a threaded ring stop 49, which is
then screwed into an inside threaded channel 50 of the insertion
tube 4 has at its distal end 27. This reverse blocking valve
prevents the loss of tire pressure during a pressurized cartridge
change, if necessary, such that the air from the higher air
pressured tire is prevented from escaping by the ball bearing seal
47 pushed up against the O-ring seal, preventing air from
escaping.
[0088] In one embodiment, the insertion tube 4 could be anywhere
from 3/4'' to 6'' or more long. For example, in one embodiment,
when in use with larger tires, the insertion tube 4 is longer. In
another embodiment, the insertion tube 4 is 3/4'' to 4'' long, and
in another embodiment, the insertion tube 4 is from about 1'' to
about 3'' long. Sizes may vary outside of these parameters.
[0089] In order for the gas to be released from the cartridge 2 and
travel through the body 3, the seal 11 securing the pressurized gas
in the cartridge 2 must be broken . . . . A number of structures
may be used that allows for the piercing of the gas cartridge seal
11.
[0090] In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 5, the knurled body 3
comprises a cartridge tip piercing component 51 having a hollow pin
52 extending through the cartridge tip body 53. The hollow pin 52
extends far enough such that when the gas cartridge is threaded far
enough into the knurled body 4, the hollow pin pierces the
cartridge thread seal. When the seal 11 is pierced, the CO.sub.2
passes directly from the gas cartridge 2 through the cartridge tip
piercing component 51, and through the insertion tube 4. In one
embodiment, the end of the hollow pin is at an angle to make
piercing the seal easier.
[0091] FIGS. 9 and 11-15 are directed towards another embodiment
that efficiently releases and conserves the CO.sub.2 gas in the
cartridge. FIG. 13 illustrates a cartridge tip piercing component
203 having a continuous air groove 32 in the shoulder 204 and
elongated body 205. There is a piercing tip shoulder rim 202, as
well as an elongated body rim 199. In FIG. 13, there is also an
O-ring 901.
[0092] More specifically, FIG. 9 shows the placement of the
cartridge piercing component 203 within the tool 1. When the
cartridge is screwed into the body, the conical piercing tip 201 of
the cartridge tip piercing component 203 efficiently and easily
pierces the flat steel seal or flexible seal 11 covering one end of
the cartridge 2, so that pressurized gas can flow from the
cartridge 2, through the body 3, and through the insertion tube 4
and into the tire or the item being inflated. However, if the
canister is continuously rotated clockwise, the seal and/or solid
rim will be positioned against the piercing tip shoulder rim 202,
which will effectively prevent air from escaping through the
cartridge 2. The O-rings 901 and 18 help prevent any incidental
leakage from escaping from the tool or from going through the body
3 out the insertion tube.
[0093] In another embodiment of the tip piercing component, there
is a groove 900 around the shoulder rim 202 where an O-ring 901 is
fitted. The continuous air groove 32 which allows for air to flow
from the cartridge 2 to the body 3 and through the insertion tube
begins at the base of the shoulder 204. FIG. 11 shows the cartridge
piercing component 203 in use without the groove 900 and without
the O-ring 901. This is shown in FIGS. 9, 15a, and 15b.
[0094] FIGS. 15a and 15b illustrate the effectiveness of the
cartridge piercing component in preventing undesired loss of
CO.sub.2 from the cartridge. FIG. 15a shows the air passageway as
the seal 11 is being pierced by the conical piercing tip 201, just
when the gas cartridge 2 is threaded clockwise, but not so far as
to cut off air flow. The arrows in the FIG. 15a shows the passage
of air from the cartridge 2 and through the continuous air groove
32 and down through the insertion tube.
[0095] As shown in FIG. 15b, when the cartridge is rotated
clockwise a bit more, the seal 11 is fit tightly against the
piercing tip shoulder rim 202. The opening pierced by the conical
piercing tip 201 effectively plugs the very hole it created.
O-rings 18 and O-ring 901 act to prevent any other possible leakage
from metal and plastic imperfections. To allow air to flow from the
cartridge 2, the body 3, and eventually out through the insertion
tube 4, the cartridge 2 is rotated counter clockwise until the
cartridge 2 is backed far enough away from the cartridge piercing
component 203 to allow gas to flow from the cartridge 2, through
the continuous air groove 32 and eventually out through the
insertion tube 4 or other attachment to the body 3.
[0096] When the tire repair tool 1 is inserted into the tire either
prior to or after the seal 11 is pierced by the conical piercing
tip 201, the insertion tube 4 is entirely or almost entirely within
the tire. In one embodiment, the CO.sub.2 cartridge 2 is screwed
into the knurled body 3, wherein the conical pierce tip 201 of the
cartridge tip piercing component 203 pierces the cartridge seal 11
covering the threads 8 of the proximal end of the CO.sub.2
cartridge 2. The compressed gas begins to flow through the tire
repair tool 1 including through the insert tube 4, and into the
tire. If more air (gas) is needed, the CO.sub.2 cartridge 2 can be
unscrewed and replaced with a fresh cartridge. If enough gas has
been used, the cartridge can be rotated clockwise to cut off the
flow of gas from the cartridge 2. In one embodiment, an insertion
tube cover 50 fits over the insertion tube, and in another
embodiment, the distal end 51 fits up against the knurling 9 of the
knurled body 3. There are a number of possible embodiments so the
insertion tube cover 50, as shown in FIGS. 12 and 13. The insertion
tube cover 50 is not a necessity, but it does protect the insertion
tube when it is connected to the body 3, and it can be removed when
the repair tool 1 is needed. Additionally, in the event of a
bicycle crash, the insertion tube cover 50 helps prevent impalement
or other injury by the brass or other tip materials, when a cyclist
is carrying the tool in their pocket or on their person.
[0097] A hole 206 in the proximal end of the insertion tube cover
50 allows air to escape if, in an extremely unusual situation, a
gas cartridge 2 loosens. Similarly, without hole 206, if someone
intentionally opened a valve to test it, pressure could build
inside the cap, potentially creating a dangerous projectile which
could cause harm or injury. The hole 206 in the insertion tube
cover 50 prevents this possibility.
[0098] Once the tire is inflated, the tire repair tool 1 is
withdrawn. Because the shoulder of the conical tip 41 may be the
same size or fractionally larger than the insertion tube 4, the
conical tip 41 with the repair plug 40 easily separates from the
insertion tube 4 as the insertion tube 4 is withdrawn, allowing
filling the hole in the tire by the repair plug 40, thereby
preventing air leakage. The tire is thus inflated and repaired
[0099] FIGS. 16 and 17 are cross sections of two different
insertion tubes 54 and 4. Insertion tube 54 is a large insertion
tube and insertion tube 4 is a normal sized insertion tube. In one
embodiment, the part of insertion tube 54 that connects to the body
3 is the same size as that of insertion tube 4 but the tube holding
the insertion tube is wider. For instance, the large insertion tube
54 accommodates a large repair plug 57 and can be from about 0.15
to about 0.22 inches wide, while the plug for the "normal" sized
insert tubes can range from about 0.10 to about 0.14 inches wide as
measured on the inside. The length of the repair plug can range
from about 0.7 inches to about 1.5 inches. In some embodiments, the
plug can be longer such as for heavy duty bus or truck tires.
[0100] FIGS. 18-22 represent a variety of different embodiments of
the disclosure and of the attachments to the proximal end of the
knurled body 3.
[0101] FIG. 18 is an exploded view of the tire repair tool, as
described with the normal sized insertion tube 4 with a regular
repair plug 40. FIG. 19 is an exploded view of the tire repair tool
having the larger repair plug 57 with a large insertion tube 54,
which is used for larger holes as described supra.
[0102] FIG. 20 shows an exploded view of a repair tire tool with an
inflation only insertion tube 56. In this embodiment, the inflation
only tip 56 allows inflation through a cut or puncture injury in
the tire. In one embodiment after the tire is filled with air, gas,
liquid, or a combination thereof, the tire can be repaired using
the plug system described in the patents cited, supra. More
specifically, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 20, the tip of the
insertion tube is blunt, not sharp.
[0103] FIG. 21 is an exploded view of the tire repair tool having a
large inflation only tip, also known as an oral inflation valve
200. The tip is just an open passageway, with no impediments. This
tip has the ability to fill inflatable life jackets and other
pneumatic flotation devices by just inserting the tip into the flip
up valve. FIG. 22 is an exploded view of the tire repair tool with
an attachment that adapts the inflation cartridge to inflate tires
having Presta/Schrader valve stem 69 (also referred to as an
American/French valve stem). FIG. 24, is another angular view of
the tire repair tool showing another embodiment allowing a
different inflation tool for use for inflation of a tire through a
Presta/Schrader valve stem.
[0104] Referring to FIG. 23, in contrast to inflation of a tire
through a valve stem, the proximal insertion tube 59 ends in a
sharp slanted point to allow for the tube to push through the wound
in the tire and fill the tire with air.
[0105] It should be noted that the threaded attachment for each of
the various attachments or various insertion tubes is the same as
it is for the insertion tube in FIG. 18.
[0106] In some situations, it is not necessary to use all of the
gas in the gas cartridge, while at the same time the user or
customer does not want to keep screwing and unscrewing the air or
CO.sub.2 cartridge 2 to control air flow. In such situations, and
in the embodiment found in FIG. 25, a ball or globe valve 60 is
positioned along passageway 12 on the inside 5 of the knurled body
3. Other valve systems could be used. In one embodiment, the valve
is fully integrated with the body 3, and the valve 60 is operated
by the use of a ball valve lever 61. The valve is located below the
cartridge tip piercing component 51 and above the insertion tube 4.
In one embodiment, if the insertion tube 4 is long enough, the ball
valve 60 can be positioned on the insertion tube 4 above holes 36,
37. Rotating the valve lever 61 90 degrees will commence or
interrupt the flow of air, CO.sub.2, or other gases through the air
passageway 12 and out through the holes 36, 37 of insertion tube
4.
[0107] In another embodiment (FIG. 26), the tool 1 includes a
pressure gauge 62 with a digital readout 63 of the tire pressure
measured in pounds per square inch or in kilograms per square
centimeter or bar. The pressure gauge 62 is positioned as integral
with and part of or attached to the knurled body 3. In one
embodiment, the pressure gauge 62 is positioned at the distal end
of the insertion tube 4 and at the proximal end of the knurled body
3. In one embodiment, bleed valve 64 is part of the pressure gauge
62 which allows for the release of air when the air pressure of the
tire is too great. In another embodiment, the bleed valve 64 is not
part of the pressure gauge 62. In one embodiment, the bleed valve
64 is positioned at or above the digital readout 63, although there
may be variations of its position.
[0108] Another embodiment of the disclosure eliminated the need for
having a hole 36 or holes 36, 37 in the side of the insertion tube
4. In this embodiment, the air or CO.sub.2 through a hole 66 in a
puncture tip 67. In this embodiment, there is no need for a barrier
wall 35 in the insertion tube 4.
[0109] In another embodiment (FIG. 27), there is a needle tube 67
which passes from an air passage way 35. The air passageway 35
extends from the distal end to the middle of the insertion tube 4
and helps channel air or CO.sub.2 into the needle tube 67. In this
embodiment, the needle tube 67 connects with and is integral with
the opening 66 through the proximal end of the needle tube 67. The
needle tube 67 can be connected to the air passageway 35 by a
threaded connection, an O-ring at the proximal end of the
passageway 35, or any other means known in the art. The tool is
inserted into the tire to inflate it, and can then be withdrawn,
whereupon hole can be repaired by any method. In yet another
embodiment that is quick and easy, the tire can be repaired using a
Dynaplug tire repair tool or any other tire repair kit after
inflation.
[0110] In another embodiment, either integral with, wedged on or
mated threaded on the proximal section of the insertion tube 4 are
pluggers 76, 77, 78, (FIGS. 28-34), used to plug cord or some
similar substance into a hole in a tire so as to plug a leak. In
one embodiment, each of these pluggers incorporate or are integral
with the insertion tube, with at least one hole 79, 80, 81 for the
release of the CO.sub.2, or gases, or liquid/gas combination into
the tire or other inflatable item. In one embodiment, the distal
end 82, 83, 84, of the pluggers have a threaded section 85, 86, 87
that is threaded into the proximal end of the knurled body 3, the
threads being complementary to the threaded section of the body. A
collar 88, 89, 90 limits the degree to which the plugger is
threaded into the knurled body 3. The collar 88, 89, 90, may serve
as an O-ring or may have an O-ring positioned on top of the collar
to prevent air leakage. In one embodiment, the pluggers are
integrally molded with or attached to the body 3.
[0111] In another embodiment, the proximal end of the insertion
tube is threaded, and the pluggers, threaded at their distal end,
such that the pluggers are attached to the insertion tube. In
alternative embodiments, other means of attachment are available,
including gluing, welding, wedging or any other means, here and
throughout the description.
[0112] FIG. 33 shows one embodiment, wherein a plugger 76 is
threaded into the body with the body attached to the canister. A
filler cord 91 is positioned or wedged between tongs 92, 93. The
plugger tip 94 is pushed in through the hole in the tire up to the
distal end of the plugger 76 (or insertion tube 4). The gas
cartridge 2 is screwed down, and the conical piercing tip 201 or
pin 52 pierces the cartridge seal 11 and inflation gas flows from
the cartridge 2, through the body 3, through the plugger 76 and out
through hole 79 and into the tire. Once the tire is inflated, the
plugger is withdrawn, and the cord 91, which is held by the tire by
friction, fills the hole, limiting or preventing leakage. FIG. 33
shows the tool without the cord 91.
[0113] In another embodiment, the tire repair tool 1 has a
cartridge sleeve 95. The cartridge sleeve 95 fits around and
"grabs" the cartridge 2. In one embodiment, when the cartridge 2 is
filled with gas, and when it passes through the body 3, and the
temperature of the metal parts of the tool 1 may drop
precipitously; consequently, it is recommended to use gloves when
handling the tool. The use of the cartridge sleeve 95 negates or
largely negates the need for the use of gloves, and the cartridge
sleeve allows for easier manipulation of the tire repair tool 1,
and in particular, the rotation of the cartridge 2.
[0114] In one embodiment, the body is made out of a high durometer
or high density silicon. In another embodiment, the cartridge
sleeve 95 is made out of a high quality plastic, or a hard rubber.
In one embodiment, the cartridge sleeve could be slightly oversized
(from about 3% to about 5%) to slide on the cartridge 2 easily but
as soon as it is gripped with one hand, it would create an
exceptional friction grip to rotate the cartridge 2 to allow for
the release or closure of the flow of gas. In another embodiment, a
lower durometer cartridge sleeve 5 is easily stretched over the
cartridge 2. The cartridge sleeve 95 has a distal section 96, a
middle section 98, and a proximal end 99. In one embodiment, the
distal end has a hole 97 perpendicular through the distal section,
with the hole being from 1/4'' to 1'' and large enough to put a
t-handle 100 through. The handle t-handle 100 can be made out of
wood, steel, aluminum or any other rigid material that does not
easily break. The handle 100 allows the plugger to be worked into
the tire, as heavier larger tires often require that more force be
applied to the tool 1 to work it into the tire.
[0115] In one embodiment, the middle section 98 has a plurality of
openings 101, 102, 103 which are positioned around the gas cylinder
2. In another embodiment, there are no openings. The purpose of the
openings 101, 102, 103 are to give the cartridge sleeve 95 enough
flexibility to be fitted over the cartridge 2.
[0116] In one embodiment, the proximal end 99 of the cartridge
sleeve 95 has a circumference 104 that grips the gas
cylinder/cartridge, such that the cartridge sleeve 95 will not slip
when positioned on the cartridge 2.
[0117] In another embodiment, the distal end 96 of the cartridge
sleeve 95 is solid or dense 105 (with the exception of the hole
97). In one embodiment, the distal end of the cartridge sleeve
terminates in a v-rest 106 in which the distal end of the cartridge
2 resides. The cartridge can be rotated by firmly grasping the
cartridge sleeve and rotating or turning the cartridge until the
seal 17 is punctured. Furthermore, the solid section 105 of the
cartridge sleeve 95 helps ensure that the rotation of the t-handle
100 will not result in undue wear and tear on the cartridge sleeve
95.
[0118] It should be noted that either a regular insertion tube 4
with a repair plug 40 can be attached to the body 2 or a plugger of
any sort may be used.
[0119] In another embodiment, a control button 107 (FIGS. 39-41)
allows for the control of passage of air from the cartridge 2
through the body 3 and out through the insertion tube 4. In one
embodiment the control button 107 is positioned through the body 3
of the repair tool 1. A spring 108 inside of the button apparatus
prevents gas flowing into the insertion tube such that the gas from
the cylinder will not flow until the control button 107 is pressed.
There are two O-rings 109, 110. The first O-ring 109 is positioned
in a cutout 111 in the button shaft 112 below the control button
107. The second O-ring 110 is positioned angularly below the first
O-ring 109, positioned in a second cut out 113 in the button shaft
112.
[0120] The two O-rings 109,110 are positioned such that when the
control button 107 is in the closed position, the sections of the
O-rings 109 are positioned above the air passageway 12 and are
positioned against a proximal wall 114 of the control button 107
within the body. In this state, and as shown in FIG. 40, the air or
gas from the cylinder passes through the hollow pin 52 or through a
double puncture wall 115 through the air passageway in the distal
wall of the 116 of the control button such that CO.sub.2 gas
pressurizes the chamber 117 between the O-rings when the pin 52
punctures the cartridge.
[0121] When the button 107 is pressed CO.sub.2 gas can flow from
the sealed off chamber to the insertion tube 4.
[0122] The walls of the extended cartridge sleeve do not terminate
at the end of the cartridge 2 but have the extended cartridge
sleeve 118. The inside wall 121 of the extended cartridge sleeve
118 are threaded. The walled body 119 has extension walls 122 from
its distal end, wherein the outside 123 of the walls are threaded.
This allows for the threading of the cartridge sleeve 118 on to the
extension walls. Of course, the walled body also has the button
control opening 124. The combination of the external canister
sleeve 118 and the walled body 119 form a shell or driver housing
125.
[0123] Because not all gas cartridges or cartridges are threaded or
are even the same size, a driver housing 125 needs to be adaptable
to the various forms and sizes of the cartridges. In one embodiment
(FIGS. 42-44), an elongated thumb screw 126 is positioned through a
hole 127 in a cap 12 at the distal end of the driver housing 125.
In another embodiment, the hole 127 is threaded. As the elongated
thumb screw 126 is turned, the cartridge is pushed down towards the
body 3 and towards the pin insert which will puncture the seal 11
on the cartridge 2. Because of the length within the driver housing
125, different sized cartridges of CO.sub.2 with different amounts
of CO.sub.2 can be inserted within said driver housing 125. The
thumbscrew 126 or equivalent embodiment is used both to secure the
cartridge 2 in place and to drive the cartridge 2 forward, towards
the pin insert. In one embodiment, there is a molded cap 128
connected to the proximal end 129 of the thumbscrew. The molded cap
128 is concavely contoured to fit the distal end 130 of the
canister 2. In one embodiment, the molded cap 128 can be made out
of plastic, nylon, metal, wood, or just about any other material.
In another embodiment, there is a 3/4 round cutout 131 at in the
middle of the molded cap 128. At the proximal end of the thumbscrew
is a round projection 132 that fits within the cutout 131. This
gives the molded cap 128 a degree of freedom of movement, which
helps accommodate some differences in the size and shape of the
distal end of a cartridge 2.
[0124] Some tires or items that need to be inflated are so thick or
the material so dense that it is very difficult for the average
person to force the insertion tube through the item by hand. FIGS.
45-58 show a device that allows for the tire repair tool 1, and
more specifically the insertion tube 4 with a spiral self-boring
tip to be power driven into the tire.
[0125] Specifically, as shown in the figures, this embodiment of
the tire repair kit 133 has a driver housing 137 with a cutaway
section 135 wide and long enough into which a cartridge 2 can be
fitted. At the distal end 136 of the driver housing 137 is a shank
mount 138 to which a power drill can be attached. At the proximal
end of the driver housing is a hollowed out groove 139, 140 on each
side of the driver housing through which pivot arms 141, 142 extend
from each side of the distal end of the body 142. In one embodiment
a ringlet 143, 144, rivet, or any other appropriate structure
prevents the pivot arms 141, 142 from slipping out of the hollowed
out groove 139, 140.
[0126] Notches 145, 146 in the body 149 allow for the body to swing
and mate with the extended arms 147, 148 of driver housing 137.
Specifically, the body 149 is swung into an "open position." A
cartridge 2 is fitted into the threads 152 of the body 149, and the
seal (not shown) of the cartridge 2 is pierced by cartridge tip
piercing component 203. The cartridge is completely rotated until
air passage is blocked. A wide insertion tube 54 is positioned at
the proximal end of the body 142. At the proximal end of the
insertion tube 54, there is a large repair plug 57 connected to a
larger spiral conical metal tip 154. The repair plug 57 connected
to the spiral conical metal tip 154 may be inserted into the
insertion tube 54 and the insertion tube 54 is screwed into the
proximal end of the body 149.
[0127] The cartridge 2 is swung into position within the body 149,
and the body 149 is then pushed swung back into the driver housing
134 such that notches 145, 146 in the body 142 allow for the body
to and mate with the extended arms 147, 148 of driver housing 137,
further securing the body 142 and driver housing 134 together.
[0128] The shank mount 138 is attached to the power drill. The
power drill is turned on, and the insertion tube 54 is then drilled
into the tire. The driver housing 137 is rotated out of position,
and the cartridge 2 is turned counterclockwise slightly to allow
air, gases, or liquid/gas combinations from the cartridge 2 to
travel through the body 149 and out the insertion tube 54 through
hole 207 and into the tire as shown in the figures. The power drill
with the insertion tube 54 is withdrawn from the tire, leaving
behind the spiral conical metal tip 154 on the inside of the tire,
and the repair plug 57 filling in the hole in the tire, preventing
further leakage.
[0129] It should be noted that the order in which this operation is
carried out may be varied.
[0130] There are situations where cartridges do not provide enough
air to fill up large tires such as truck tires, or where using a
multitude of CO.sub.2 cartridges is not practical. In those
instances, an external source of CO.sub.2, gas, or air is needed.
In one embodiment, a cartridge less tire repair tool 208 has a
hollow air collection shell 209 having a stem 210. The stem may be
connected to a hose supplying air to the tire or inflatable. The
hollow air collection shell 209 is threadably connected to a body
211 by means of threads 212 on the collection shell 209
complementary to the threads 213 on the body 211. In another
embodiment, the body 211, shell 209, and stem 210 are integrally
connected, and can be one piece.
[0131] The body 211 has no need for an insert pin or any similar
structure. It has a flow through air passageway 214 and a control
button switch 107 described supra, to control the filling of the
tire. In the image shown, the particular stem has a Schrader valve
section which is utilized to attach a portable repair
inflator/compressor source to inflate tires through the injury. As
before, to repair larger tires, the device has an insertion tube 54
with repair plug 57. The device 208 is connected to a portable
compressor 215, which is in turn connected to a car charger by
means of a charger adapter 216. It should be noted that this is not
a limiting feature as the device 208 could be attached to any pump,
as well as to any power source. It bears emphasizing that the tool
housing is hollow and has the same male threads as other tools
having a cartridge 2 as described above. Hence, one can use the
body and the insertion tube with a cartridge if desired, if the
body 3 has a cartridge piercing tip.
[0132] As shown in FIG. 61, the cartridge less repair tool 208 can
operate on DC or AC power compressor hooks up its air line via a
quick connect or other connector means to inflate the tire with any
type of gas, normally air or nitrogen gas. As previously noted,
virtually any non-combustible gas can be used. In one embodiment of
the disclosure, one of the chief characteristics of this innovation
is that the tool housing is hollow and has the same male threads as
a threaded CO.sub.2 so the embodiment shown above with the push
button valve and threaded insertion tube is that same embodiment
that can be used with threaded insertion tubes. It should be noted
that in one embodiment of the disclosure, a cartridge tip piercing
component 203 is fitted within the body 211. Any practical adapter
to deliver air from a compressor to the body can be used.
[0133] In another embodiment (FIGS. 62 and 63), the body 3 of the
repair tool 217 is attached to another empty housing 218. The
housing 218 with a coupler 219 that can be attached to a hose or
specialized housing by loosening the threaded nut 220, which in
this case is hexagonal. The threaded nut 220 is then moved towards
the distal end of the coupler 219. The hose is or other flexible
cable is slipped through the nut 220, over the distal end of the
coupler 219 and up to the proximal end of the coupler 219. The
threaded nut is tightened to the threaded collar 221 of the coupler
219, with the hose or cable between the threaded collar 221 and the
threaded nut 220.
[0134] The coupler 219 and housing 218 is threaded into a Schraeder
male valve stem connector body 222, which is connected to an
insertion tube 54 and a repair plug 57. It should be noted that any
body 3 that can be fitted with a "large" insertion tube 57 can also
be fitted with a regular insertion tube 4 as the size of the
threaded mount is the same. Also, in the present device, the empty
housing (or air chamber) 218 is threaded onto the body 218 just as
a gas cartridge 2 would.
[0135] In another embodiment, the coupler is threaded 222, over
which an air hose or a Schrader valve can be threaded. In another
embodiment, 223 of the coupler is threaded, and an air hose with a
male thread can be attached to the coupler. The air hose itself can
be used of any appropriate material including but not limited to
rubber, plastic, nylon, polyurethane, braided stainless steel,
other plastic hose materials and any combination thereof.
[0136] Another embodiment attaches a coiled air hose 224 connected
to the body 3 by means of an adapter 225. A cartridge 2 is attached
to distal end of the body 3. A first threaded arm 226 connected to
the first side of the adapter 225 is threaded into the proximal end
402 of the body 3 (Note that in all of the embodiments where there
are threads there can be the reverse of which thread is threaded
into the other thread). The second threaded arm 227 of the adapter
is connected to a coiled hose 228 or other type of hose. The
proximal end 229 of the coiled hose 229 is attached to a Schrader
or Presta valve stem 230. Other valve stems could be used in other
embodiments. In yet another embodiment, the adapter 225 also has a
female threaded port 231 large enough to accept a threaded pressure
gauge 232. The distal end of the hose has a threaded connection 401
which is threaded over the second threaded arm.
[0137] In another embodiment shown in FIGS. 66-68, a CO.sub.2
cartridge 2 is attached to a sealant dispenser 233 for filling and
sealing tires. The sealant dispenser 233 has at its distal end
female threads 234 to which the cartridge 2 is attached. It has a
top wall 235, a bottom wall 236, and a distal wall 237 containing
the female threads or other attachment devices, and a tip piercing
component 238. At the proximal end is a dispenser needle 239
attached to an end cap 240 that is removable so that the tire
sealant can be poured in. Within the sealant dispenser is a movable
plunger, 241, which comprises at least one O-ring 242, and in
another embodiment a second O-ring 243 for stability and to prevent
sealant leakage.
[0138] A pressure relief valve 245 allows CO.sub.2 gas escape after
the plunger pushes the sealant into the tire. It should be noted
that other methods of attaching the cartridge to the dispenser may
be used, such as locking snap rings. In another embodiment, there
is an insertion tube 4 in place of a needle 239. The insertion tube
4 has the upper section 33 comprising at least one hole 36 through
which air and sealant passes, and the lower section 34 has an
opening through which a repair plug 40 fits. The upper and lower
sections are separated by wall 35. There is also a valve tube 246,
which, when the pressure relief valve is pressed, air travels from
the release valve 247, through the valve tube 246 and into the
upper section of the insertion tube and out through the at least
one hole 36.
[0139] To operate, the sealant dispenser 233 is filled with the
sealant, and the removable end cap 240 is fitted back on the
proximal end of the sealant dispenser 233. The CO.sub.2 cartridge
is attached, the CO.sub.2 seal is punctured and the plunger 241
moves forward, dispensing the sealant through the dispenser needle
239 or through the insertion tube 4 and out through the at least
one hole 36. The release of the sealant should be at a reasonably
fast but controlled rate of speed. As with other descriptions
supra, elements may be added to this device. Indeed, all elements
in the description, can, where practical, be used with other
elements of the disclosure. As shown in FIG. 67, the O-ring plunger
is near the proximal end of the chamber after the sealant has been
injected into the tire.
[0140] When an insertion tube 4 is used the release valve 247 is
pressed and air travels through the valve tube 246 which allows
both the hole 36 to be blown clean and allows the tire to be filled
to the desired pressure. The release valve 247 is closed by
removing one's finger from the valve 239. The insertion tube is
then withdrawn, leaving behind the plug 40 to complete the seal and
repair of the tire.
[0141] It should also be noted that the flow switch button 107, a
pressure gauge 62 with a digital readout 63, reverse blocking valve
formed by a check valve compression spring 46, the ball valve lever
61 and the other features mentioned, supra, can be used alone or in
combination with the other features in all of the embodiments, in
this disclosure.
[0142] In another embodiment, a bullet nosed cylindrical insertion
tube 400 has a distal cylindrical section 401 and a bullet nosed
proximal section 402. The proximal section has an air hole or
passageway 403. In one embodiment, The bullet nosed cylindrical
insertion tube 400 is bored out up to the air hole 403. A
continuous indenture or groove 405 into which is fitted a repair
cord 410 wraps around from one side of the distal section 401, up
and around the proximal end 406, and continues down the other side
408 in a mirror image. Like any insertion tube, the distal end of
the insertion tube is threaded into the proximal end of the body 3
of the tire repair kit. More specifically, with this embodiment, a
repair cord can be added in the insertion tube indentures which can
then be inserted into the tire. As with other embodiments described
above, there is an internal passageway for the gas, air, CO.sub.2,
or gas/liquid combinations to be propelled by a CO.sub.2 type
canister using an assembly similar to FIG. 1. Once the insertion
tube is fitted into the tear in the tire and the air, CO.sub.2, gas
or gas/liquid combination is released into the tire injury, via the
air hole 403, the tool can be withdrawn, leaving the repair cord in
the tire, thereby filling the tire tear or injury and preventing
air loss. This method of insertion allows a cord only repair which
does not require reaming of the tire with a repair tip.
[0143] In alternative embodiments, the distal end of this insertion
tube can have a variety of geometric shapes, and does not have to
be cylindrical.
[0144] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various
modifications and variations can be made to the disclosure
described above without departing from the spirit or scope of the
disclosure. Thus, it is intended that the present disclosure cover
modifications and variations that come within the scope of the
appended claims and their equivalents.
* * * * *